Markovic missed Liverpool's opening day win against Southampton on Sunday because of a hamstring injury but is expected to be available for the Reds' huge early season clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

The Serbian international is quoted in the Liverpool Echo, saying: “When we say Liverpool most of us think of Steven Gerrard, and that’s not only the case with us who were born in the Nineties.

“He is a legend, an icon, the king of the club. Yet still he is completely natural and normal.

“We all listen to him and treat him with the utmost respect. He welcomed me like a true captain and a great gentleman, just like he did with all the other new guys.”

Not only did he speak of the respect and admiration he had for Steven Gerrard, but the will to win he has at Liverpool. Markovic seems keen on competing for the title and the Champions League with Liverpool, rather than being part of a side that makes up the numbers.

He added: “Liverpool and our fans deserve the return of the most important trophy. I would love to be a part of the generation that brings this trophy back to Liverpool.

“With the Premier League and the Champions League, we’ll be going for it on both fronts. There are a lot of reasons for optimism. This club is very ambitious.”

It seems that Liverpool have signed a player that recognises the club's icons, but is also determined to make his own mark at the club. Reds' fans would like to see him make an immediate impact in the huge game against City on Monday night.

What do you make of Markovic's comments?

Ian Bolland

A journalism graduate of Liverpool John Moores University. During his time at university, Ian spent time on work experience at local newspapers in Liverpool, Bolton and Wigan, and prior to that he did work for The Observer's 'fans verdict'. Ian also has interests in news, current affairs and business but mostly sport, including football, rugby league, cricket, golf and Formula 1, amongst others.